Education & Law
Knowledge is the first step toward justice
Clear, trustworthy information about the Mississippi penal system, your legal rights, and the data behind the crisis.
Resource hub
Start here. Each guide breaks down a complex part of the system into plain language.
The MS Penal System Explained
A plain-language overview of how arrest, sentencing, incarceration, and parole work in Mississippi.
Sentencing & Parole Guide
Mandatory minimums, habitual offender laws, and how parole eligibility is actually calculated.
For Families
Visitation, commissary, phone access, and how to stay connected with an incarcerated loved one.
Glossary of Legal Terms
Decode the courtroom: arraignment, plea, probation, expungement, and dozens more terms.
Know your rights
Essential answers for incarcerated individuals and their families. This is general information, not legal advice — for your situation, contact a provider on our Resources page.
Know Your Rights pocket guide
Printable PDF · English & Spanish
The school-to-prison pipeline
How small decisions compound into life-altering outcomes. Illustrative figures.
- 3.5×Exclusionary school discipline
more likely for Black students
- 2×Suspension → contact with police
higher dropout risk
- 63%Dropout → incarceration
of inmates lack a diploma
- 36%Release → re-arrest within 3 yrs
statewide recidivism